BBC Radio 2’s Zoe Ball gives emotional update as her mother moves to hospice: ‘Pretty tough at the moment’

BBC Radio 2’s Zoe Ball gives emotional update as her mother moves to hospice: ‘Pretty tough at the moment’

WATCH HERE: Zoe Ball reveals the fire brigade had to intervene when she left a candle burning

Olivia Gantzer

By Olivia Gantzer


Published: 18/04/2024

- 10:13

The radio presenter announced last month she'd be taking some time off work

Zoe Ball has given a sad update about after taking time off to care for her ill mother, Julia.

The radio star, 53, told fans her mum is now in a hospice following her cancer diagnosis and admitted the family are finding things “pretty tough”.


It comes after Ball explained in March she would be taking time away from her BBC Radio 2 breakfast show to support her mother.

During her show on Wednesday, she updated listeners after dedicating a Bon Jovi song to paramedics who helped move her into a hospice earlier this week.

She explained: “Mum's in hospice now, pretty tough at the moment for the family.

“I just want to say thank you to John, Scarlett and Charlie, both Charlies actually and Sophie and Laura who are really looking after mum.”

Zoe Ball and her mother Julia

Ball shared a sad update with BBC Radio listeners

Getty/BBC

She went on to say: “I know so many people in the same position as Jamie my bro, and my dear mum at the moment.

“Things are really tough for my mum at the moment, just sending out loads of love. And especially to anyone who is running the marathon for special causes.

“Big shout out to anyone running for cancer charities, especially pancreatic cancer, you're all superheroes. Love you mum.”

After finishing her show, Ball sent another message of thanks and support on her X account, along with a snap of some bluebells blooming in a wooded area.

Zoe Ball

Ball explained her mother had moved to a hospice

Getty

She penned: “Thank you for all your kindness. the messages, letters and cards for Mum mean the world.

“Strength & love to the many families touched by cancer. holding tight & so grateful to the incredible people looking after our Ma. We pass these bluebells on the way to the hospice.”

Speaking on social media in early March, Ball announced she’d be taking a break.

“Heartbreakingly our beautiful Mama Julia has been diagnosed with Cancer,” she wrote on Instagram.

Zoe and Julia Ball in 2010

Ball announced in March she would be taking a break from work

Getty

The post continued: “As many of you know from experience, these are extremely tough times. Mum is being incredibly brave.

"My brother Jamie & I are completely in awe of the brilliant Doctors, Nurses & support teams looking after Mum. Thank you.

"Gratitude to our families & our extended family & friends at home & at work for their support at this time.

"Sending out love to people reading this who are battling cancer, or awaiting diagnosis & also to the folk looking after their dear ones who are poorly.

"I'm trying to be at work on breakfast as often as I can but occasionally need to be home with my Mama. Thanks to Gaby for stepping in. Lots of love."

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